BUCARAMANGA, Colombia: The Saudi Arabian national physics team has achieved significant success at the 56th International Physics Olympiad (IPhO) in Colombia, earning five international awards. In a further milestone for the nation’s scientific advancement, Saudi Arabia has also been selected to host the prestigious global competition in 2027, underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering science education and international academic collaboration.
Held in Bucaramanga from July 4 to 12, the International Physics Olympiad gathered 381 secondary school students representing 87 different nations.
With this latest success, Saudi Arabia’s total tally at the IPhO now includes eight silver medals, 26 bronze medals, and 23 certificates of recognition, demonstrating a consistent upward trajectory in the Kingdom’s performance within international scientific competitions.
These achievements are the result of a rigorous training regimen facilitated by the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba). Students qualified by succeeding in the National Science and Mathematics Olympiad before undergoing intensive coaching and specialized training through the Mawhiba International Olympiad Program, guided by both domestic and international experts.
A Growing International Presence
During the current competition in Colombia, the International Physics Olympiad Board officially approved Saudi Arabia’s bid to host the 57th IPhO in 2027.
This appointment highlights Saudi Arabia’s increasing capacity for organizing major global scientific events. The Kingdom recently hosted the 56th International Chemistry Olympiad in Riyadh in July 2024, involving 333 students from 90 countries, and Dhahran hosted the 25th Asian Physics Olympiad in May 2025, which saw participation from 240 students across 30 Asian nations.
Additionally, the Kingdom is set to host the third International Nuclear Science Olympiad (INSO 2026) in Jeddah from August 2 to 9, further solidifying its reputation as a premier venue for international scientific gatherings.
Saudi officials noted that the decision to award the 2027 Olympiad to the Kingdom reflects global confidence in the nation’s organizational expertise and its rapidly advancing scientific infrastructure.
Hosting this event aligns with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Human Capability Development Program by investing in youth talent, driving innovation, and strengthening the nation’s knowledge-based economy while showcasing its educational advancements to the world.
Developing Elite Talent
Mawhiba, the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity, serves as a cornerstone institution for nurturing gifted students in the fields of science, technology, and innovation within Saudi Arabia.
Earlier this month, the Ministries of Education and Industry and Mineral Resources introduced the 2026 Mawhiba Summer program. Currently operating across 19 cities in Saudi Arabia and through international partner institutions, the initiative provides 88 enrichment modules to over 12,000 students.
These programs cover diverse areas including scientific research, academic enrichment, technology, game development, and leadership. The curriculum is strategically focused on four national priority sectors: human health, energy and industry, environmental sustainability, and future economies, all of which support Saudi Arabia’s long-term research and innovation objectives.
